Bianchi · 1947–1967
Bianchi Aquilotto, Bianchina and Falco: history and buying advice
The light two-strokes with which Bianchi got back on its feet after the war.
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History
During the war the factory in Milan was destroyed, and in 1946 Edoardo Bianchi died. His son Giuseppe took over. To have something to sell quickly, the Aquilotto appeared: a 48 cc engine that you fitted to a bicycle, the same idea as the Ducati Cucciolo.
In 1947 came the Bianchina, a real 125 cc two-stroke that sold well. Later came the Falco, a moped with a Puch two-stroke built under licence. Many light Bianchis went to America and were sold there as the Montgomery Ward Riverside. Bianchi stopped making motorcycles in 1967; the make still makes bicycles.
Key data
| Aquilotto | clip-on engine 48 cc, two-stroke |
|---|---|
| Bianchina | 125 cc, two-stroke (from 1947) |
| Falco | moped, 49 cc Puch two-stroke, 3 gears |
| End | motorcycle production stopped in 1967 |
What to check when buying
- Check which model it is and which papers go with it (bicycle with clip-on engine, moped or motorcycle).
- Fill up with premix and check the compression.
- On the Falco: many parts are the same as Puch; that makes it easier.
- Watch for rust in the frame and tank.
- American Riverside examples sometimes have different parts.
SourcesMCNews: Bianchi Aquilotto, Bianchina and Falco (English)Wikipedia: Bianchi (motorcycles) (English)